HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DOG for firework night

Any celebration with fireworks can be an unsettling and sometimes a traumatic time for dogs. Most 'dogparents' are aware of the dos and don’ts on the evenings of firework celebrations But there are steps that can be implemented before Bonfire Night to help settle our pups and keep them safe. We spoke to Ealing dog walker Shanice Noble about her top tips for keeping your dog safe during the upcoming festivities:

Lessen the shock factor of sudden, loud sounds

You can do this by playing firework audios or videos at a low volume at first, then gradually increasing the volume overtime It is best to progressively do these exercises in the weeks leading up to the celebration dates where firework displays are likely The Kennel Club has their own Spotify playlist for this very exercise You should try to remain as calm as possible, even if your dog is reacting to sounds On the night of the firework celebration, leaving the radio or TV on at a respectable level (to be mindful of your neighbours), will help drown out the outdoor sounds

Create a calm, safe zone away from windows and doors.

Their special place might be their crate or a nook within your home where they happily curl up If your dog does not yet have a space like this within your home, you can create one It all starts with a comfy base and a select few of your dog’s comforts Chews and snuffle activities may also be included in their ‘den ’ This area should remain a positive space

Exercise, feed then wind down

On the days leading up to the firework celebration and on the day of, the following routine can help your dog remain settled indoors for the evening If your dog likes to go out for a walk or run, it is extremely important that you try to stick to going out when it's light; Then feed them their usual feed (if they eat a meal at night); then engage in a calm activity, away from windows and doors The activity can be a homemade enrichment exercise - such as the pretzel roll (using a towel and broken up treats or kibble), a treat dispensing toy, LickiMat, snuffle mat or puzzle game Having some background sounds (radio, music or TV), is useful for this part of the routine too This winding down routine can help dogs settle and doing it over an extended period of time - not just on the days that fireworks will be present, can make all the difference

ID tags & microchips preparation and prevention is key

We never want to welcome the worst case scenario, but it is best for us to be proactive and prepare Ensuring that the information on your dog’s ID tag is up to date, the text or QR code is legible (some become worn overtime) and that your dog’s microchip details are correct/updated too, could all help you reunite with your dog(s) if they ever get lost after hearing a shocking loud noise

Secure Your Home

Not just for firework display preparation, but throughout the year, diminish the chances of your dog escaping from your home Regularly check that the doors, windows and outdoor areas are secure Dogs should not be out walking (even on fixed leads or training leads), whilst fireworks are being set off It’s safer for them to be securely at home

A note especially for the owners of anxious pups: I would love for you to consider making sure that your anxious fur-child has some company, for at least some of the evening when firework displays are in full swing If each of the household members will be heading out and your family members and friends are not available to support with dog care, in Ealing we have some reputable Dog Walkers and Sitters that you may be able to hire ahead of time If you are concerned about your dog’s anxiety, please make an appointment and discuss further with your dog’s vet A behaviourist may be recommended for severe cases